Beef Stew Recipe: Beef stew is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. The rich, savory flavors combined with tender chunks of beef and hearty vegetables make it the ultimate comfort food.
Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect beef stew from scratch.
Ingredients Overview
The key to a great beef stew is quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Beef: Opt for 2 lbs of chuck roast or brisket, cut into bite-sized chunks.
- Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, onions, and celery are must-haves. You can also add parsnips, turnips, or mushrooms for variety.
- Broth or Stock: 4 cups of beef broth for a rich, deep flavor.
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons to add depth and a hint of sweetness.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves for a fragrant finish.
- Seasoning: Salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder.
- Flour or Cornstarch: For thickening (optional).
- Red Wine (optional): Adds a deep flavor to the stew.
Choosing the Right Cut of Beef
Not all beef is created equal when it comes to stew. You want a cut that will break down and become tender with slow cooking. The best choices include:
- Chuck Roast: A well-marbled cut that becomes incredibly tender after hours of simmering.
- Brisket: This cut is slightly fattier and delivers robust flavor.
- Shank or Short Ribs: If you’re feeling adventurous, these cuts add extra depth to the stew.
Vegetables to Include
The vegetables are almost as important as the beef itself. For a classic beef stew, include:
- Carrots: Their sweetness complements the savory broth.
- Potatoes: Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for a buttery texture.
- Onions: Yellow onions offer a mild, sweet flavor when sautéed.
- Celery: Adds a slight crunch and earthy taste.
You can switch things up with parsnips, sweet potatoes, or even green beans depending on what’s in season.
Prepping the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, it’s important to prep everything so the process goes smoothly. Here’s how to do it:
- Cut the Beef: Cut your beef into even 1-2 inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Chop Vegetables: Make sure to cut the vegetables into similarly sized pieces so they cook evenly.
- Season the Beef: Lightly season the beef cubes with salt and pepper before browning.
How to Make Beef Stew
Here is a quick visual reference of how to make beef stew, but be sure to watch the full video tutorial below, and you’ll see just how easy it is to make Beef Stew.
Step 1: Browning the Beef
Browning the beef is the secret to a flavorful stew. When you sear the beef, you’re locking in juices and creating a caramelized crust that adds depth to the stew.
- How to brown: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil. Working in batches, sear the beef cubes on all sides until browned. Avoid overcrowding the pot to ensure a good sear.
Pro Tip: Don’t skip this step! Browning enhances the flavor tremendously.
Step 2: Building the Flavor Base
Once the beef is browned, it’s time to build the flavor foundation. This step is all about sautéing aromatics and deglazing the pot to scrape up those delicious browned bits from the beef.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until they soften and turn translucent.
- Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to concentrate the flavor.
- Deglaze: Pour in a splash of wine or broth to deglaze the pot, scraping the bottom to lift any stuck-on bits.
Step 3: Adding Liquids
Now it’s time to add the liquid base that will simmer and tenderize your beef.
- Broth or Stock: Pour in 4 cups of beef broth or stock. If you’re using wine, you can add 1 cup of red wine at this stage.
- Thyme and Bay Leaves: Add fresh herbs to infuse the broth with flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Season to taste, but remember you can adjust later.
Step 4: Simmering the Stew
Simmering is where the magic happens. The key to tender beef is low and slow cooking.
- Simmer for 1.5-2 hours: Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.
Step 5: Adding Vegetables
About halfway through the cooking time, you’ll want to add your vegetables.
- Carrots, Potatoes, and Celery: Add these vegetables about 45 minutes before the stew is done so they become tender without turning mushy.
- Adjust Liquid: If the stew is looking too thick, you can add a bit more broth as needed.
Step 6: Adjusting the Seasoning
Taste the stew as it cooks and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
- Salt and Pepper: Always taste before adding more salt, as the flavors will concentrate as the stew reduces.
- Herbs: If you want a more herbaceous flavor, add more thyme or rosemary.
Step 7: Thickening the Stew
If you prefer a thicker stew, you have a few options:
- Natural thickening: The potatoes should help thicken the stew naturally as they break down.
- Flour or Cornstarch Slurry: Mix a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with water and stir it into the stew. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes until the stew thickens.
Step 8: Finishing Touches
Before serving, it’s time to add the final touches.
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top to brighten the dish.
- Acidity: A squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of vinegar can help balance the richness of the stew.
Serving Suggestions
Beef stew is perfect with some warm, crusty bread for dipping. You can also serve it over mashed potatoes or with a side of buttered noodles. For drinks, a glass of red wine or a cold beer pairs wonderfully.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Beef stew tastes even better the next day. Here’s how to store it:
- In the fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat over low heat on the stove, adding a little water or broth if it’s too thick.
- Freezing: Beef stew freezes well. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
FAQs about Beef Stew Recipe
1. How can I make my beef stew tender?
To make your beef stew tender, choose the right cut of meat like chuck roast, and cook it low and slow. Simmering the stew on low heat for a couple of hours allows the meat to break down and become tender.
2. Can I use a slow cooker to make beef stew?
Yes, a slow cooker is perfect for beef stew. Set it on low and cook the stew for 6-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, to allow all the flavors to meld together while keeping the meat tender.
3. What vegetables can I add to beef stew?
Common vegetables include carrots, potatoes, onions, and celery. You can also add mushrooms, parsnips, and peas for extra flavor and nutrition.
4. How do I thicken my beef stew?
To thicken your stew, you can use flour, cornstarch, or even mashed potatoes. Stir a slurry of cornstarch and water into the stew or dust the meat with flour before browning.
5. Can I freeze leftover beef stew?
Yes, beef stew freezes well. Store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
There you have it! A rich, hearty beef stew that’s sure to satisfy on any cold day. Whether you follow this recipe exactly or add your own twist, beef stew is a versatile and forgiving dish that’s perfect for beginner and experienced cooks alike. Happy cooking!
References
To ensure accuracy and provide additional resources for your culinary journey, we have cited reputable sources below. These links offer expert guidance, tips, and variations on preparing a delicious beef stew. Dive deeper into these trusted sources for more insights:
- The Kitchn – Classic Beef Stew Recipe: A step-by-step guide to creating a rich, hearty beef stew with pro tips on selecting the right ingredients.
- AllRecipes – Best Ever Beef Stew: Tried-and-true beef stew recipes with variations from home cooks, along with helpful reviews and preparation advice.
- Bon Appétit – Beef Stew Done Right: This expert guide offers unique twists to the traditional beef stew, focusing on flavor enhancement and cooking techniques.
These links not only validate the information shared here but also offer alternative methods to suit your preferences.
